Dark-eyed Junco

The Dark-eyed Junco (also known by her pseudonyms, the Snowbird and simply the Sparrow) is a ubiquitous bird in North America, and often spends the winter in areas with relatively harsh climates. They’re a pain in the rump for those who like to categorize species into simple, discrete units: Dark-eyed Juncos have a staggering 15 subspecies, many of which used to be considered separate species entirely. In Vancouver we have the Oregon Group, which, in itself, apparently houses eight subspecies (none of which I would be able to tell apart). Juncos build their nests in cleverly concealed locations on the ground, which always seemed like a dumb strategy to me. Though, I suppose having a nest in a tree might not be that big of an advantage when your main predators are squirrels and other birds.

The entrance to a Junco nest in northern Saskatchewan

In Vancouver, as we begin our dreary descent into the rain-drenched months of winter, the birds are also preparing for the cold season. As they preen, they coat their feathers with oil from a special gland that keeps them waterproof. They can fluff up their plumage to make it more insulating, and might be putting on fat to keep their energy stores high. Many birds will get together with all their friends to roost at night and keep each other warm. Snowbirds, or Rainbirds, as the case may be, around here have it easy compared to those who live in climates with “real” winters.

I saw this pair in the Point Grey neighbourhood on September 22 (way back before midterm season hit).